Is Your Business Ready For The Big PSTN Switch Off?

Cloud communications are the future. Transform your company digitally and ensure its future sustainability in light of the upcoming PSTN switch-off. 

What is PSTN Switch Off

BT Openreach launched a national stop-sell of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) on September 5, 2023, marking an important milestone in the transition to digital network technologies. This marked the start of the phase-out process, with a complete PSTN shutdown anticipated for 2025.

As a result of the stop-sell, BT Openreach will no longer offer new PSTN-based services after September 5, 2023. It is essential to remember that you can continue to use pre-existing legacy PSTN services until the final PSTN switch-off in 2025. However, during this time, you will be unable to purchase or modify any existing ISDN or PSTN services.

So, what’s the other option?

Many companies are embracing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology in response to the PSTN switch-off and the need for more modern communication solutions. VoIP technology allows data transmission and phone calls via an internet connection, allowing businesses to transition to an all-digital solution and future-proof their operations against the PSTN switch-off.

PSTN line decommissioning is a once-in-a-lifetime technology transformation; however, switching does not have to be terrifying, but careful planning is needed for a seamless transition to fibre solutions by 2027. 

Advantages of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

VoIP is revolutionising communication by providing companies with cost-effective, adaptable, and feature-rich options. As the transition away from traditional PSTN network increases, VoIP is positioned to play a critical role in moulding the future of how we interact in a world increasingly reliant on internet connectivity.

Here are a few advantages of upgrading your services to VoIP:

Keeping your phone number on file

When switching from a traditional landline phone network to VoIP, your business can keep its existing telephone system number. Helping businesses maintain their established brand and relationships while leveraging VoIP technology.

Cost Effective

VoIP solutions provide much cheaper rates for local, national, and international calls than traditional phone services. VoIP also eliminates the need for expensive on-premises telephony technology, resulting in significant cost savings and facilitating the transition to a digital network.

Outstanding scalability and versatility

VoIP solutions can be accessible from a variety of devices, so you won’t be limited to a desk phone; you can take calls anytime, anywhere on your digital network. VoIP may be simply scaled up or down to fit your company’s expansion or to help during peak seasons.

Increased Productivity

VoIP systems are ideal for flexible working since they provide consistent communication regardless of location and include a variety of collaboration options such as enhanced features that increase productivity.

Advanced features and capabilities

Unlike a traditional phone line, aside from phone calls, VoIP provides a wide range of additional features and capabilities, such as video conferencing, file sharing, instant messaging, advanced call routing, call recording, auto attendant and CRM integration, and a lot more.

Dependability 

VoIP systems have failover and business continuity features, ensuring that your conversations remain dependable even during network disruptions in the transition from analogue systems.